The Chief Judge of Kwara State, Justice Abiodun Adebara, has ordered the release of six inmates during a jail delivery exercise at the Old Ilorin Custodial Centre, Okekura.

The inmates were released following a careful review of their cases in accordance with the law, as part of ongoing efforts to decongest custodial centres and protect the rights of awaiting-trial inmates.

During the exercise, Justice Adebara stated that the jail delivery initiative reflects the judiciary's commitment to ensuring that justice is not delayed and that inmates who no longer have legal grounds to remain in custody are promptly released.

He urged the beneficiaries to make good use of their freedom by embracing lawful means of livelihood and becoming responsible members of their communities, advising them to stay away from criminal activities and contribute positively to society.

The Officer-in-Charge of the custodial centre, Assistant Controller of Corrections Muyiwa Omole, commended the Chief Judge and his entourage for the exercise, describing it as timely and impactful.

Mr. Omole noted that the exercise would help reduce congestion in the facility and improve effective inmate management, assuring the judiciary of the continued cooperation of the Nigerian Correctional Service in promoting the administration of criminal justice in the state.

Also speaking, the Kwara State Controller of Corrections, Tolorunshagba Emmanuel, praised the Chief Judge for his sustained support towards decongesting custodial centres in the state.

Mr. Emmanuel said the exercise demonstrates the strong collaboration between the judiciary and the Nigerian Correctional Service in ensuring speedy justice delivery. He reaffirmed the command's commitment to maintaining safe, secure, and humane custodial facilities, while advancing rehabilitation and reformation programmes for inmates.

Meanwhile, the Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, reiterated the Nigerian Correctional Service's commitment to safe custody, rehabilitation, reformation, and the successful reintegration of inmates into society.

He also emphasised the need for stronger collaboration among stakeholders in the criminal justice system to ensure deserving inmates are reintegrated as responsible and productive citizens, thereby reducing recidivism and improving public safety.